By Our Reporter
The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) over the weekend launched two important projects aimed at enhancing power supply reliability and promoting local economic growth in Butebo District. Valued at over Shs240 million, these initiatives are set to benefit numerous residents, including local businesses and educational institutions.
A primary focus of the projects was Petete Primary School, which had been fully wired for internal electrical systems yet lacked a connection to the national grid.
UEDCL extended the distribution network to not only connect the school but also serve Petete Church, surrounding households and the Petete Town Council offices, culminating in the installation of a new transformer.
In response to the burgeoning industrial activities in the area, UEDCL installed a robust 100kVA transformer to support a mini-industrial park under construction in Kabarekere Village, near St. Paul High School.
Prior to this, the site was without proper electrical infrastructure, relying on a distant 25kVA single-phase transformer situated approximately 600 meters away, grossly inadequate for the park’s anticipated electricity demand of 48kW.
“With growing commercial activity and agro-processing in the area, we anticipate increased electricity demand. We have therefore installed a new 100kVA transformer to provide the capacity needed to support industrial and agro-processing activities,” stated UEDCL Managing Director Eng. Joselynne Rwabwogo.
The commissioning of these projects took place over the weekend and was officiated by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja during a thanksgiving ceremony held to honor Energy Minister Dr. Monica Musenero in Petete.
Eng. Rwabwogo also emphasized UEDCL’s ongoing commitment to addressing power reliability issues.
UEDCL has embarked on a nationwide stakeholder engagement initiative, focusing on establishing stronger collaborations with local leaders, addressing customer concerns about service delivery and soliciting feedback to improve operations.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by frequent power outages, Eng. Rwabwogo assured that UEDCL is dedicated to implementing both immediate and long-term infrastructure improvements to address network constraints and meet the increasing electricity demand.
“These interventions reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the electricity distribution network, improving reliability and delivering better quality power to customers across the country,” she stated.
As Butebo District continues to grow, these projects are anticipated to play a crucial role in boosting the local economy and ensuring that residents have reliable access to electricity.